Dhurwa

Dhurwa is a term used in parts of eastern India to refer to a sub-tribal group associated with the broader Oraon (Kurukh-speaking) community. The Dhurwa are primarily found in Jharkhand, with communities also present in adjacent areas of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Bihar. In some classifications, Dhurwa is described as a clan or sub-tribal division within the Oraon, rather than as an independent ethnic group.

Language and culture are closely linked to the Kurukh heritage. Most Dhurwa speak Kurukh as their ancestral language, while many are also fluent in regional languages such as Hindi or Odia. Traditional social life tends to be organized around clan networks, with customary rites, marriage practices, and village governance reflecting a synthesis of indigenous traditions and Hindu-influenced practices. Festivals common among the Oraon, such as Sarhul and Sohrai, are observed by many Dhurwa, though specific rituals can vary by locality.

Economically, Dhurwa communities have historically relied on agriculture and forest resources. Crafts, livestock rearing, and the collection of forest produce have also played roles in livelihoods. In contemporary contexts, Dhurwa people participate in education, public employment, and local governance, while also engaging with state-led development initiatives and tribal-rights programs aimed at land and resource security.

Naming variations, including spellings like Dhurwa or Dhurua, reflect regional language influences. As with many tribal groups in India, the Dhurwa experience a blend of preserving traditional customs and adapting to modern social and economic changes.